Donald Trump's recent AI deals in Saudi Arabia and the UAE are causing internal friction within his administration. China hawks are worried that these projects could jeopardise US national security and economic interests. The deals, pushed through during Trump's Middle East tour, involve the transfer of advanced AI technology and infrastructure development.
Critics argue that these agreements could inadvertently benefit China by providing access to cutting-edge AI research and development. They also raise concerns about the potential for these technologies to be used for surveillance or military purposes, undermining US strategic advantages. The US has been trying to limit China's access to advanced technology, and these deals could weaken those efforts.
The situation highlights the tension between economic opportunities and national security concerns in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. As AI becomes increasingly central to both economic growth and military power, governments face difficult decisions about international collaboration and technology transfer.